Unreasonable force claim

TWO police officers are facing an investigation for the alleged use of unreasonable force while making an arrest in Kyogle last month.

Richmond Local Area Command duty officer Acting Inspector Craig Ahrens confirmed a complaint about the officers had been received but the allegations would not be investigated until after a court case relating to the matter.

It is understood the police officers involved are Sergeant Aaron Reid and Senior Constable David Hill.

The complaint stems from an incident at the Commercial Hotel, also known as Kyogle Top Pub on February 4 that led to two men being charged.

There has since been an outcry in Kyogle about the matter with several community members accusing the officers of heavy-handedness.

Sgt Reid has responded to this in a police report published in a community newspaper by saying there was no point in "addressing the accusations of bias or unfair treatment" other than to say: "Behave yourself and you won't find yourself in trouble."

Blake Flanagan has been charged with failing to leave licensed premises when asked to do so, intimidating a police officer in the execution of duties, resisting a police officer in the execution of duties and assaulting an officer in the execution of duties.

Hotel licensee Wayne Goodwin has also been charged with wilfully obstructing a police officer in the execution of duties.

A/Insp Ahrens said a senior police officer would be following the court proceedings and taking note of any comments made by the judge.